Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A missing Indigenous person alert was issued for 15-year-old Abriana Powell from Bellingham, WA, who was last seen on June 23. The Washington State Patrol requests anyone with information about her whereabouts to call 911.
The City of Bellingham agreed to a $150,000 settlement in a lawsuit regarding the destruction of a motorhome owned by Jerry and Terri-Lynn Land. The Lands alleged that city employees wrongfully declared their vehicle a "junk vehicle" without verifying its operability. The settlement dismisses the lawsuit with prejudice, barring any future claims on this matter.
Western Washington University announced layoffs impacting 20 positions amid a budget deficit exceeding $20 million. The university's president indicated that the cuts are part of a broader plan to reduce the deficit, which has grown to $23 million since the state’s legislative session.
Bellingham City Council voted unanimously to eliminate “junk fees” for renters, prohibiting landlords from imposing excessive charges. The ordinances will take effect on August 1 and require landlords to disclose any additional fees before lease signing. Over 20,000 renters in Bellingham are currently cost burdened.
Notorious serial killer Anthony D’Amato, known as the “Hillside Strangler,” will appear before a parole board on June 25. D’Amato, 74, has been imprisoned since the late 1970s for the murders of multiple women, including two Western Washington University students. If the board denies his parole request, he may face an extension of his sentence.
Washington state officials seek public input on the Washington State Rail Plan before the feedback window closes Tuesday. The plan aims to enhance passenger and freight rail services to alleviate congestion, stimulate economic growth, and lower emissions.
Health officials confirmed two measles cases in Whatcom County, with the first individual quarantined at home. The second case emerged after a visit to a local urgent care center, raising concerns about potential exposure for others present. The overall risk to the community remains low, according to health authorities.
U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen toured a privately-run ICE facility in Tacoma, highlighting the need for improved staffing and services for the 1,500 detainees. He criticized Trump’s policy of mass arrests and pledged to assist a detained activist in seeing his family before a court date.
Whatcom County opened a new trail system in the Olsen Creek State Forest, providing seven miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails are accessible from the Y Street trailhead, and no Discover Pass is required, although parking is limited.
The Port of Bellingham is considering expanding its commission from three to five members, allowing for private discussions among commissioners. Some commissioners support the change for better communication, while others warn it could politicize the port's operations. A vote on the issue is scheduled for July 15.